BJP Demands CAG Audit Amid Allegations of Financial Irregularities in Delhi Discoms

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has called for a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) audit of two power distribution companies (discoms) in which the Delhi government holds stakes. They allege significant financial mismanagement leading to operational losses. In response, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) accused the BJP of having a pre-planned agenda to seize power and transfer resources to their industrialist allies, burdening ordinary citizens with increased costs.

Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva stated that the AAP government and the two discoms have created conditions that will inevitably lead to higher electricity rates in the city. He highlighted that while three major power discoms operate in Delhi, with private entities holding a 51% stake and the Delhi government owning 49%, only one consistently turns a profit while the others incur losses.

Financial Discrepancies and Allegations

Sachdeva questioned why the AAP government did not revoke the license of the private entity showing consistent losses in both electricity purchase and sale. He alleged that this private company ensures full payment to four power generation companies, which could cut supply for non-payment, but fails to pay two Delhi government companies on time or in full for electricity purchases.

Bansuri Swaraj, a New Delhi BJP MP, pointed out that the two loss-making discoms reflect mismanagement and questionable intentions by the private company managing them. She emphasized the need for an investigation, questioning how these discoms could show consistent losses without collusion from the AAP government.

Regulatory Assets and Outstanding Payments

Swaraj claimed that while the private company operates profitably, its jointly owned discoms with the Delhi government suffer losses in both selling and purchasing electricity. She noted that this private company treats its electricity supply losses as regulatory assets, now amounting to over 21,000 crore rupees.

The outstanding payments owed by Delhi government power generation companies Pragati Power Corporation and Indraprastha Power Corporation have now exceeded Rs 26,638 crore due to delayed payments, according to Swaraj.

AAP's Defence and Counterclaims

The AAP defended its position by stating that its government is unique in providing free electricity round-the-clock to all residents. They claimed that over 22 lakh families receive zero electricity bills, and 40.22 lakh domestic consumers benefit from subsidies provided by the Delhi government.

The AAP asserted that even after a decade, they have maintained this policy unlike BJP-ruled states where electricity prices have surged. They challenged the BJP, which governs 20 states, to identify one state where they offer free or 24/7 electricity.

Neighbouring States' Power Issues

The AAP also criticised BJP-led neighbouring states like Faridabad, Noida, and Gurgaon for relying on generators even during non-peak demand times. They suggested that BJP leaders making false claims should instead urge their chief ministers to ensure uninterrupted power supply in those regions.

The ongoing debate between BJP and AAP highlights differing approaches to managing electricity distribution and pricing in Delhi. Both parties continue to exchange accusations as they vie for public support ahead of upcoming elections.